New life for former hostel

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A building that has weathered the changing face of Maitland for more than 150 years is about to be restored to its former glory.

Once a hotel for those visiting Maitland in the 1840s and, later, the Matthew Talbot Hostel for homeless men, the two-storey dwelling – in Banks Street, East Maitland – is almost ready for its latest reincarnation.
“The building has been approved to be converted into an 18-room guest house and it will be completely refurbished and restored to its original state,” heritage conservationist Chris Richards said. “This will be a magnificent project but it will also be a real challenge.”
Mr Richards helped save the house from demolition almost three years ago when an engineer claimed the building was condemned.

Full article by Emma Swain available at Maitland Mercury, 10 Aug, 2011.